I've read a lot of really good things about the bio filtration of these things but I was curious about the mechanical side of filtration. Is anyone using one of these as a mechanical and bio filter? How is tank clarity (pics appreciated) and how often do you backwash? What kind of bioload do you have and are you happy with it as a mechanical filter?
Ultima filters
- Thread starter specialized002
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Ask me again in a few months and I will have more feedback with a heavier bioload. My latest tank with Ultimas is too new to provide true pros and cons.
I will say that in my researched I noticed nearly every person complaining about mech capabilities for these filters was overdoing the flow rate and/or running a small Ultima with a large pump. FX6's don't run 5,000 GPH for a reason as well... One has to trust the R&D that goes into these products is correct to a large degree and build backwards from that math.
It really depends upon your design and equipment used to maximize their capaibilities.
Multiple threads on how good they are for bio but like others mentioned some have complained about mechanical. There are those that run nothing but ultimas and have no complaints on mech, my guess is it is related to stock. I would checkout the biowaves as they are a primary competitor and get rave reviews for bio and mech. The down side is the need for a blower.
I will soften my language as you are the real expert. And yes it seems like with all filters people have differences of opinions.
Mine has always been run with a sump and filter socks. So hard to say for sure. I have my heaters in the sump anyway so a couple filter socks help polish the water. One thing for sure though, the backwash feature is priceless. It dumps 250 gallons in 10 minutes and you never have to clean it out by hand. Worth every penny in my opinion.
You are correct about filter performance based on stock. One filter might work for fish but not rays. Hence, the difference in opinion.
Bead filters operate similarly optimizing the thin film process on the medias. As the bio layer builds it renews itself by dropped off dead layers. Flow is important to keep the process. Otherwise anaerobic bacteria forms. Biological reactors for sure does not trap anything but ensure a thin film bio layer as it tumbles and stays clean of build up.
The difference in bead filter brands is the media configuration and size resulting in different back/operating pressure. Some say that violent media tumbling during backwash causes a short period haze due to a stumble in biological.
Best reports are from people running one with a certain fish like JK47 is going to do. This is the latest install of the Ultima. Can't wait to hear the pros and cons.
I run a bead filter but never backwash for years since installed. The flow rate and media I used never traps. I've kept a group pbass and changed over to a group of trevallies with the same filter. Great bio filter. Weekly WC takes care of the particulates.
I think many are confusing the BioWave and the BioGlass..one uses the standard K1 type media and the other uses crushed glass. Sorry if came across rude in my above post. I am not an expert but a hobbyist like all and sharing and participating in discussion.